Woman chases Union College president, wife around their home

Mumbling words about a nearby Catholic church, a 57-year-old Saratoga Springs woman struggled with police Monday when they tried to remove her from the on-campus home of Union College President Stephen Ainlay and his wife, authorities said.

Darlene Verruto

Darlene Verruto kicked her way into the mansion and then chased the frightened couple into a room where they locked themselves until authorities arrived.

Staff writer Paul Nelson reports:

Once campus security got to the home, Verruto fought with them as they tried to take her into custody. One of the security guards was injured, police said.

Police said the woman was mostly incoherent but made rambling comments about St. John the Evangelist, the Catholic church across Union Street from the president’s on-campus home.

“She was rambling on and on about all sorts of stuff,” Schenectady Police Lt. Mark McCracken said.

Verruto is charged with first-degree burglary, second-degree assault, and second-degree criminal mischief. She is also charged with resisting arrest, a misdemeanor. She is scheduled to be arraigned in City Court on Monday afternoon.

“We’re thankful that the president and his wife are OK,” Union College spokesman Phil Wajda said. Wajda referred all other questions to police.

The bizarre home invasion, which is remains under investigation, occurred a day after the college held commencement ceremonies.

That’s right Mr. President… raise tuition again… see what happens… also, have you seen my gravy boat? Last I seen it there was an orange in it singing about a guy with antlers parading around in a leather jumpsuit.